Aluminum vs. PPS

Attribute	Aluminum	PPS
Chemical Symbol	Al	C18H14O3S
Density (g/cm^3)	2.70	1.36
Melting Point (°C)	660.3	280
Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K)	237	0.25
Electrical Conductivity (%IACS)	61.2	0.0001
Flammability	Non-flammable	Flammable

Introduction

Aluminum and PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide) are two materials commonly used in various industries for their unique properties. While aluminum is a lightweight metal known for its strength and durability, PPS is a high-performance thermoplastic with excellent chemical resistance and heat resistance. In this article, we will compare the attributes of aluminum and PPS to understand their differences and applications.

Physical Properties

Aluminum is a silvery-white metal with a density of about 2.7 g/cm3, making it lightweight yet strong. It has a melting point of 660.3°C and a boiling point of 2519°C. Aluminum is also non-magnetic and non-toxic, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. On the other hand, PPS is a high-performance thermoplastic with a density of about 1.35 g/cm3. It has a melting point of around 280°C and a glass transition temperature of 85°C. PPS is also resistant to chemicals, acids, and bases, making it ideal for harsh environments.

Mechanical Properties

Aluminum is known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making it a popular choice for structural applications. It has a tensile strength of about 310 MPa and a Young's modulus of 69 GPa. Aluminum also has good fatigue resistance and can be easily machined, welded, and formed. PPS, on the other hand, has a tensile strength of about 80 MPa and a Young's modulus of 3.5 GPa. While PPS is not as strong as aluminum, it has excellent creep resistance and dimensional stability, making it suitable for high-temperature applications.

Thermal Properties

Aluminum has a high thermal conductivity of about 237 W/mK, allowing it to quickly dissipate heat. It also has a low thermal expansion coefficient, making it dimensionally stable at high temperatures. Aluminum can withstand temperatures up to 600°C without losing its mechanical properties. PPS, on the other hand, has a low thermal conductivity of about 0.3 W/mK. However, PPS has a high heat deflection temperature of around 260°C, making it suitable for applications that require thermal stability.

Chemical Resistance

Aluminum is susceptible to corrosion in acidic or alkaline environments, but it can be protected with coatings or anodizing. PPS, on the other hand, is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents. PPS is also resistant to hydrolysis and oxidation, making it a preferred choice for applications where chemical resistance is critical.

Electrical Properties

Aluminum is a good conductor of electricity, with an electrical conductivity of about 36 MS/m. It is often used in electrical wiring, power transmission lines, and electronic components. PPS, on the other hand, is an electrical insulator with a low dielectric constant and low dissipation factor. PPS is also flame-retardant, making it suitable for electrical and electronic applications that require high temperature and chemical resistance.

Applications

Aluminum is widely used in the aerospace, automotive, construction, and packaging industries due to its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties. It is also used in consumer electronics, cookware, and furniture. PPS, on the other hand, is commonly used in automotive parts, electrical components, industrial equipment, and chemical processing equipment. PPS is also used in medical devices, aerospace components, and semiconductor manufacturing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, aluminum and PPS are two materials with distinct properties and applications. While aluminum is known for its strength, lightweight, and thermal conductivity, PPS offers excellent chemical resistance, heat resistance, and dimensional stability. The choice between aluminum and PPS depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as mechanical strength, thermal stability, chemical resistance, or electrical properties. Both materials have their advantages and limitations, making them suitable for a wide range of industries and applications.